Profile photo of Eileen McCracken

Eileen McCracken

JunJune 8th, 1974 JunJune 9th, 2024
Glasgow, Scotland
Eileen McCracken

Eileen's Memory

The Merck community is mourning the sad loss of Eileen McCracken, our SLS Head of Diagnostics & Regulated Materials, who passed away unexpectedly earlier this month. Eileen leaves behind a legacy of dedication, leadership and friendship that spanned over 20 years at Merck.

Eileen began her career as a Regulatory Affairs Technical Writer at our Livingston site and advanced through numerous global roles within Quality Operations. Most recently, she led the DxRM team within SLS, ensuring customer centricity and success. Her contributions were pivotal in shaping our organization.

Beyond her professional achievements, Eileen will be remembered as a dear colleague, mentor and friend with a warming smile and infectious personality. Her passion, dedication and unwavering commitment will leave a lasting impact on all who worked with her.

Our thoughts are with Eileen's family and loved ones during this difficult time. We invite you to contribute to her memory wall with a photo or memory to be shared with Eileen’s family. Your stories and pictures will help celebrate her life and the profound influence Eileen had on all of us.

On behalf Merck KGaA Employees in memory of Eileen

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Memory wall

Post a message or share your memories and photos.


August 30, 2024
We have known Eileen, Derek and Zack since they moved to our neighbourhood over 25 yrs ago. In that time we became very good friends, played golf (Derek & Brian), partied (drank) and our daughter became friends with Zack.
We recently suffered a very sudden and tragic family bereavement and Eileen was immediately a rock for Loraine, guiding her through her grief process and spending time talking to her. When Eileen passed it was such an awful shock. I guess we respond as humans do and try and support Derek and Zack the best we can, as they had been doing for us.
Eileen was clearly an intellectual force but as friends we only really saw her fun, loving, compassionate and slightly bonkers side. She has certainly left a gap in many of our lives and this heart breaking memorial wall is evidence of that.
Brian & Loraine Muirie
August 1, 2024
I knew Eileen in the 1990s's and have very fond memories of her . Very sad news indeed and I would like to pass on my condolences to Derek and Zac from my family x
Tina McCallum
July 30, 2024
I was extremely fortunate to have worked with and eventually for Eileen. She was a force of nature at work and someone I always wanted in my corner. Eileen had the ability to be vulnerable and establish deep relationships and friendships with her peers. She wore her passions and emotions on her sleeve, making everyone feel connected to her and our work. She was a great mentor and champion, and she will be truly missed.

I hope that Derek and Zach find some comfort in knowing how much we all cared for her at Merck. The many days and nights she spent away from her family were spent with people who truly cared for and appreciated her as both a person and a colleague.
Chris Townley
July 29, 2024
I was very shocked and saddened to hear of Eileen's passing. I remember working with her for the first time when she was conducting a routine internal audit of our department as a quality leader. She was incredibly supportive, instructional and encouraging throughout the whole process, and I was so pleased to get to know her a little better during this time. My thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends. May her memories always be a blessing for you - she will be dearly missed by so many.
Paula Shively
July 29, 2024
Eileen was a force to be reckoned with. I still can't quite accept that we are speaking about her in the past tense. She was too passionate, quick, and sharp to be gone so soon. I've worked for Eileen for the last two years but have known her for the past seven. There were times when her frenzied pace frustrated me and times when I've never felt so valued. There were times when her tough words cut like a knife and times when I knew that she and I were WAY more alike than different.

I am so thankful for the time I had with Eileen to learn from her, be encouraged by her, strive to impress her and laugh with her. Eileen was my boss, mentor and friend and as heart broken as I am, I can only imagine how devastated Derek, Zach and her close family and friends are by this loss. I am sending love and healing to those close to her. Cheers Eileen!
Lauren Hopson
July 29, 2024
I had the pleasure of working with Eileen for a few years. As a leader she would ask you questions seeking out ways to improve, ways to grow as an individual and a business. As a colleague she would crack a joke or make a statement easing tension and adding levity to challenging situations. When she would press on our business to deliver, she always ended with saying “I know it isn’t going to be easy, but I have faith in you guys.” Faith isn’t something given freely these days so that meant a lot to me.

While I am deeply saddened by Eileen’s passing and I wish every comfort for her family in moving forward, It is with great pride I can say that when I look back on my memories of her they bring me joy and are very fond memories.
Brent Heller
July 29, 2024
I wanted to take a moment to express my deepest condolences to you and your family on the passing of Eileen.
My initial encounter with Eileen was during the SAP project at Lab Water. Her passion and vibrant personality left a lasting impression on me and the entire team. Her ability to inspire, challenge, and radiate compassion was truly remarkable.
Although I only knew her from a distance, I am deeply saddened by her loss. Her positive impact on the lives of many will always be remembered. Eileen's energy and passion were evident in every project she undertook.
Please know that my thoughts are with you and your team during this difficult time.
May you find strength and solace in the cherished memories of Eileen.
Margherita Di Domenica
July 27, 2024
I consider myself lucky, for the last two years I have worked side by side with Eileen and even though she was in Glasgow, and I was in St. Louis, we made it work and most days it was like we were in the same time zone. As the Head of DxRM she was a fearless leader who challenged us to be better because she truly believed in each and every one of us on her team. Eileen had an energy like no other, she approached every day with a sense of determination and collaboration to ensure we delivered for our customers. She faced challenges (there were many) head on and always focused on moving forward towards a solution. And she was right there along the way to help solve problems to ensure promises were kept and deadlines were met frequently reminding everyone “we are in this together.” Bringing people together is what she did best, through an encouraging word, a friendly smile, or her memorable laugh to lighten the mood.

To Derek and Zach, I hope you can find comfort in knowing the impact Eileen had on so many people, not only professionally but also personally. Her spirit will continue to live in more people around the world than you can imagine.

Cheers to my friend, you will be missed!
Jessica Copeland
July 26, 2024
Eileen was an inspirational leader, and a role model I truly admired. You could tell from the moment you met her that she was passionate about everything she did, and she wasn't afraid to challenge the way things were in an effort to make a positive change for those around her. I will remember her remarkable ability to support her team in a way that not only showed how much she cared, but also pushed us all to put our best foot forward. Although I knew Eileen in her professional life, I can only imagine how strong a presence she was outside of work as well. Eileen's spirit will continue to inspire me as I am sure it will many others.

My thoughts and sincere condolences go out to Eileen's family and friends, and I hope that knowing how impactful she was on so many people across the world helps to bring some peace to you during this difficult time.
Kelsey McBride
July 26, 2024
To Eileen's family: it is impossible for me to imagine the loss you have experienced, but as a husband, a father, and a son, I know it must be overwhelming. I will continue to pray for God's grace and compassion to be with you and comfort you, and that the many wonderful memories of Eileen lend you solace and peace, today and forever.

Eileen was clearly a person that was special to more than just her family and a few close friends. So many colleagues, across generations and continents, share the same recognition of a remarkable person. As the memories shared tell, Eileen was a person that used her gifts to benefit others through support, encouragement, and inspiration. What's evident is the longer people knew Eileen the deeper their appreciation and love for her grew. We are all fortunate to have had Eileen in our lives, even if for only a short time.
David Carter
July 26, 2024
The news of Eileen's passing was both shocking and heartbreaking, and coming to terms with this reality has been difficult. Over the past two years, I had the privilege of working with Eileen as her business partner. She was collaborative and made you feel valued and appreciated. Her passion, drive and sense of purpose were evident in everything she did. She had impressive managerial courage and was not afraid to be bold and take risks. Eileen was humble and always lead with “we,” she celebrated the wins as a team. She also embraced challenges as a team often saying, “we are all in this together”. She was open and valued hearing all side of a business case yet had a keen ability to be decisive and move things forward. She was transparent and honest, never mincing words which could be comical at times with her accent. She had a quick wit, classic phrases “I have bigger fish to fry at the moment” and added her lighthearted perspective when the situation needed it. Eileen was also fiercely loyal and protective of her team. Eileen made a lasting impression, and it will not be the same without her.

It is with great sadness to say goodbye to Eileen. This tragedy serves as a reminder that time is a gift. I fondly remember her last visit to Burlington and our time together. She was in high spirits after a successful week of meetings, and she was looking forward to heading home to her family. We had a wonderful dinner together on her last night, full of good conversation and laughs. This will remain a cherished memory and am grateful for that time with her. Eileen, may you rest in peace, and know that you will always be honored and celebrated.

My heartfelt condolences go out to Derek, Zack and her entire extended family and friends. My thoughts and prayers are with all of Eileen’s loved ones during this time.
Cheryl Stanton
July 26, 2024
My deepest condolences to Eileen's family and friends. Although I didn't have many opportunities to interact with her, the occasions I did were truly a pleasure. She dedicated herself wholeheartedly to everything she believed in. My thoughts are with those closest to her as they navigate this difficult time.
Dawn Redington
July 26, 2024
It has been difficult to find the right words to write. The loss of Eileen has left a huge hole in DxRM, which we are all trying to navigate without her (of course, SHE would have known exactly what to do and how to lead us through this tragedy I'm sure!). Since she had this much impact on us at work, I imagine she left an even bigger hole in her personal life amongst her family and friends. You have my deepest condolences and sympathy. She truly was a great role model and leader, but I will never forget the moments I saw her take those hats off to be a fun-loving person and deeply inspiring woman. Her passion & work-ethic were contagious, and I know I will continue to be inspired by her legacy. My heart continues to be with you all as you mourn.
Aubrey Thessing
July 26, 2024
My deepest condolences to Eileen's dear family and friends.

I was fortunate to work with Eileen over the past year. Eileen was a wonderful person to work with as she was welcoming, supportive, and encouraging, especially when I joined her team and faced a myriad of challenges. I was continually inspired by her strong sense of purpose and the passion she showed for the work she did.

Eileen will be deeply missed. I fondly remember the time our team spent in Darmstadt on a walking tour, sharing stories about our families, and preparing, cooking, and sharing a meal together. One thing that keeps me encouraged is thinking about the lasting, positive influence she made on so many people.

May you all find peace.
Chris Wozniak
July 25, 2024
The loss of Eileen was a huge shock with long-lasting impact. She was a strong force and advocate for DxRM, and a role model for women leaders. I didn't interact with her much over the past couple of years, but during each interaction, both her passion for her job and warmth for her people were apparent. I send my deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathy to her family and friends.
Tracy Adair-Kirk
July 25, 2024
It is with a heavy heart to say goodbye to Eileen. I first met and got introduced by Eileen to DxRM last summer, but was lucky to work closely with her. She’s one of the best business partners in my career - transparent, reasonable and supportive. Over the year, we shared memories, laughter and joy together. The moment of us brainstorming and preparing for Deep Dive in Saint Louis, the moment of us exploring Darmstadt city and office, and the moment of us cooking together in the team event, all leave unforgettable memories and made it even harder to write these words.

It is a huge loss to the company, colleagues, friends and especially the family. She will be deeply missed and remembered with love and admiration. Her passion, wisdom and leadership will continue to inspire us.
Candice Guan
July 25, 2024
Friend, admired colleague, inspirational leader, highly respected, loyal, fun and vivacious - Eileen, it is my privilege to have known, worked, partied, laughed and cried with you.

Memories are a gift to treasure, mine
of you will last forever.
Sleep safe my dear friend x
Gina Keevey
July 25, 2024
I will always remember Eileen's infectious laugh and smile and the way she filled the room. From the moment she first joined the team in Livingston it was clear Eileen was destined for great things. An inspirational leader and mentor in the workplace, and a great friend out of it. Truly heartbroken by her passing, but she leaves a outstanding legacy that will always be remembered. Till the next time my friend.
adrian birkett
July 25, 2024
I remember when I joined DxRM in January last year and had the pleasure of meeting Eileen for the first time a month later in Darmstadt. She graciously took the time to engage with me, not only discussing work and my personal ambitions but also offering valuable insights into achieving a harmonious balance between professional dedication and family life, particularly when raising young children. Her willingness to share her own experiences left a lasting impression on me and served as a powerful demonstration of her exceptional leadership qualities.
Her loss was a huge shock, I send my deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathy to her family and friends.
Tom Kupfer
July 24, 2024
Although I worked with Eileen for a fleeting time as her E.A, I loved working for her. From the minute I met Eileen, she was vivacious and encouraging. I was always in awe of her energy, focus and drive and how she always ‘rallied the troops.’ I will miss her laughter and her spark …. Eileen was a shooting star of a woman who moved quickly and shined brightly. Eileen will be deeply missed, and I would like to send my heartfelt condolences to her family and friends.
Jacqueline Irvine
July 24, 2024
It is so hard to find the words. I hadn’t known Eileen for as long as a lot of people on here, but I was lucky to work very closely with Eileen in my role as her Assistant. Eileen was so driven and determined. She was a straight talker, her honesty meant you knew exactly where you stood, she didn’t mince her words. She was a great boss, an amazing mentor and a loyal friend.
One of Eileen’s talents was collaboration, she had a knack for bringing people together and getting people excited about working together. People wanted to do their best for her. She had high standards and always led by example. Eileen thrived on success and was always willing to share in this, ensuring everyone got the recognition they deserved. She was a great team leader, never shying away from difficult conversations or situations, always standing by her team 100%.
I will miss our chats about everything from football to Real Housewives, her parenting tips, her warm infectious laugh. She pushed people to aspire to be the best version of themselves and because of her so many people are. My thoughts are with Derek and Zack at this very sad time.
Pamela Graham
July 24, 2024
In the halls where you once walked, Your absence now leaves us in shock. A colleague, a friend, so dear, Your memory we'll forever hold near.

My thoughts and heart are with her family during this difficult times. No words can capture the depth of their loss.
Rebekka Keller
July 23, 2024
I had the opportunity to spend valuable time with her during her visit to China last August. The time we spent together, visiting customers and engaging in business discussions.

During that week, I had the privilege of witnessing her diligence, agile mindset, and strategic thinking. I learned a great deal from her, not only about business but also about leadership and professionalism. Her impact on me during that short period of time was profound, and I will always carry the lessons she imparted with me.
Juliana Zhu
July 23, 2024
Heartfelt condolences to her family and to all who worked closely with Eileen. I had the privilege of working with her directly over the past eighteen months. Eileen was an extremely dedicated leader with exceptional drive, always focused on the growth and success of our business. She never hesitated to show appreciation and offer recognition for hard work and a job well done.

Eileen’s legacy of dedication, determination, and drive to succeed will live on in our hearts and minds as we continue to work toward realizing her vision for DxRM. She will be deeply missed, and it was truly an honor to have had the opportunity to work with her.
Mary Ann Ford
July 23, 2024
The loss of Eileen weighs heavy on our hearts. I worked with her for a relatively brief time, but during that span she made a profound impact on our commercial department and the entire division. Her leadership, dedication, and respect for everyone with whom she worked inspired me and my Tissue Diagnostics colleagues. She fostered an environment where we all thrived, and her contributions will be remembered by all of us. I viewed her as an excellent mentor as well as a genuinely good person, and I extend my condolences to her family and friends.
Jeffrey Gordon
July 23, 2024
Sending my most heartfelt sympathy to Eileen’s family and loved ones. I had an opportunity to work with Eileen closely in July 2023 with the go live of SAP Next. Eileen backed her team 100% and new that without a doubt her team could accomplish any challenge set before them, she was an amazing leader like that. She had way of encouraging and making you believe in yourself, even if you were not believing in yourself at that moment. Eileen will be missed deeply. No one can ever prepare us for the loss of a loved one, I do hope her family and loved ones find some sort of comfort and strength during this challenging time, knowing how much Eileen was respected and loved and thought so highly of here in DxRM.
Jennifer Lewandowski
July 23, 2024
I am writing with a heavy heart to express my deepest condolences for the passing of Eileen. Though I only recently joined the team and didn't have the chance to work under her directly, the profound impact she had on everyone is undeniable. It was clear how beloved she was by her colleagues, and her leadership will be deeply missed.
May she rest in peace.

Sincerely,

Henry Oh
Henry, Hyeong-Rock Oh
July 23, 2024
Eileen was a true leader that stood behind her DxRM family 100%. Her integrity and dedication to our business and people as a thoughtful, driven leader will be something that is impossible to replace. My heart breaks for those friends and family that lost such a beautiful, kind soul. I am hoping all those affected by this tragedy can find peace in the days ahead. Thinking of you all.
Erin Lahti
July 23, 2024
I’ve known Eileen since she started at Millipore. Over the years sometimes we worked closely together on large challenges and sometimes we were colleagues who saw each when we happened to be in the same building, but we were always friends. Eileen is someone I could always call to catch up with, chat, connect or just hi.

It wasn’t until last year where we started working very close together. When we first reconnected with what seemed years, Eileen had an amazing way to make you feel like no time had past since you last connected. Eileen always let you know exactly how she felt, what she thought and had a passion for what she was doing. Her way of making you passionate and feeling a part of the cause made you not only want to work with her but be like her.

I am grateful I had the opportunity to really re-connect with Eileen over the past year both personally and professional. Her passion for her life outside Merck was just as powerful, her laugh so genuine, her sincerity and ability to truly engage in an open and caring way created trust. She was an amazing colleague and friend, and I will miss her deeply.
joseph letterman
July 19, 2024
Eileen was a force of nature, with tremendous intelligence, strength, and passion. At Merck/Millipore, she was known not just for her sharp mind and ambition, but for the inspiring energy she brought to every endeavor. She was extremely dedicated, and her leadership and drive were admirable. She unapologetically pushed boundaries, challenged the status quo, and always aimed for excellence.

Eileen also had a zest for life that was truly infectious. During face-to-face meetings, her playful nature and great sense of humor came out, and she was the life of the party. She jumped into new situations without pause, whether it was shooting nerf bow and arrows at a team-building event, or learning Muay Thai to entertain the APAC sales training attendees. I’ll never forget her ability to secure capex funding for DxRM on the dance floor!

Eileen’s laugh was contagious – I can still hear it so distinctly – and her spirit, indomitable. She cared so much about the people in her life, and was so very thoughtful. This incredible loss is still so hard to understand and come to terms with. Eileen was more than a colleague and teammate; she was a true friend who challenged me in ways that led to growth and understanding, and someone I deeply admired. My deepest sympathies to Derrick and Zach, and everyone who knew and loved her.
Melinda Cook
July 19, 2024
Over the last ten years or so, my path crossed with Eileen's on many occasions, from TrackWise to Master Data and Next. However, it was our time working together on extending the Women In Leadership network in EMEA that I remember most fondly. This was an area Eileen was deeply passionate about, and despite her own work commitments, she always made room for this vital topic.
Eileen was herself the definition of an inspiring and authentic woman leader, and I followed her career progress with great admiration. I remember her sharing how she watched the Real Housewives series as her means of destressing! I loved her relatability and how she connected with ease at all levels of our organisation.
We have lost a formidable woman. My deepest sympathy goes out to all Eileen's family, friends, and colleagues.
Layla Goodridge
July 18, 2024
I haven't had the mental capacity to put into words the kind of woman the world has lost. Eileen was my business partner, a mentor, and a friend. I am so fortunate to have her in my life. I wouldn't be the person I am today without her.

She was the definition of a leader. She was passionate, she was direct and transparent, she backed her team 100%. She didn't turn away from challenges or conflict. I hope I can be half the leader she was one day and make her proud.
Lauren-Ashley Landry
July 18, 2024
I met Eileen for the first time years ago when I was part of the Applied Strategy team and she business partner for Quality. After a while our path crossed again, when I was sitting at the airport flying to Livingston for the first time after the pandemic. That day I read the announcement of her being appointed as Head of DxRM and wrote an email, inviting her to come and visit Livingston for an update on the business.
Her response was prompt, asking for how long I am in Livingston that week and she came on Friday.
This is a true example of her supportive, perceptive and down to earth leadership style. She was genuinely interested in people and showed it openly.
So, my deepest condolences to the family and friends for the loss of such a kind and wonderful person.
Natascha Rund
July 18, 2024
I first met Eileen in 2016 while working on several interconnected projects. From the start, it was evident that she was passionate, dedicated, and driven. Throughout our interactions over the years, her infectious character and strong sense of purpose always shone through, combined with a highly collaborative and caring approach. Eileen effortlessly balanced work and family life. Just a few weeks ago, we shared a conversation about how our children, both the same age, had finished school, attended their proms, and were about to start new chapters in their lives. We laughed about how we could be mothers of 18-year-olds when we still felt 25 ourselves. My deepest condolences go out to her family and friends. She will be greatly missed, but her legacy, laughter, and memories will live on in our hearts.
Victoria Whittaker
July 17, 2024
It's still so hard to believe that Eileen is not with us anymore. Her passing has been a hard one to reconcile, and not without a multitude of many memories during the process. I had the pleasure of working with, and working for, Eileen for many years, and I truly cherish those times. Eileen was an amazing leader and mentor, and some of my most valuable career lessons involved Eileen. She taught me to truly believe in myself - to have the courage to trust my own knowledge and expertise - she always relayed "You know what you're doing, trust that!". She also taught me to enjoy the downtime - as she would say "Enjoy the lulls...when it rains it pours so you know you'll be busy again soon...enjoy the downtime when it comes". Eileen was also a great friend and great listener. I will miss those conversations. My deepest sympathies to Eileen's family and friends. She will truly be missed but remembered forever.
Lisa Hammond
July 17, 2024
Nawaz (far left in photo) and I (far right in photo) gave Eileen McCracken and Joe Letterman a tour of Milwaukee R&D and the lab building in May 2024. We were able to meet her in person for the first time and spend some time with her talking about chemistry, learning about the business and pitching ideas. It was a pleasure to work with her over the last few years. May she rest in peace.
– Preston MacQueen

Preston MacQueen
July 17, 2024
My deepest condolences to Eileen's family. It is still hard to imagine Eileen is not amongst us anymore. I want to express my true respect to her and her values, she was always clear, direct and trustful in our relationship. I respected her with the values she deerly lived which is so much more than talking about it. She is a loss for us as employees but surely also for the company. I can only hope that the family gets strong comfort to overcome this difficult time.
Andrea Lingler
July 17, 2024
Eileen was an extraordinary leader and an important part of MilliporeSigma. I was deeply saddened to learn of her passing. Eileen was intelligent, capable, dedicated, honest, and collaborative. She lifted those around her while always pushing for success. My prayers are with her family, and I hope the wonderful memories and legacy she leaves behind can be a constant blessing for them during this challenging time.
Brian Wahlquist
July 16, 2024
It feels unreal that Eileen with all her energy is no longer with us.
In my first encounters with Eileen I experienced her as the embodiment of the motto "be bright, be brief, be gone".
She cut through problems at an amazing speed, took a decision, "ok..anything else?".
I admired her clarity and it was obvious why she was in this top leadership role. Over time I had the pleasure to get to know her better and to also discover her explosive humour and her kindness. I realized that despite her tremendous energy and the crazy speed with which she tackled problems, she always also saw the person she was dealing with.
She was an extraordinary person and I am thankful that I had the opportunity to work with her.
My thoughts are with her family.
Ole Hufen
July 15, 2024
Eileen’s leadership touched the lives of many. I am deeply saddened by our loss and can only imagine the impact her absence will have on our company. She was truly unique, and her absence will be keenly felt. Eileen had a remarkable ability to inspire and challenge others, always with a display of empathy and compassion. I consider myself fortunate and privileged to have collaborated with her on the SAP project. Her influence was profound and far-reaching, leaving an indelible mark on everyone she encountered. Please accept my heartfelt condolences to you and your family during this difficult time.
Shari Klekamp
July 15, 2024
She was the ultimate leader, a figure almost fictional brought to life. Action-oriented and strategic, she didn't tolerate any nonsense and was a sharp, straight shooter with her wit and knowledge. Professional and personable, demanding and caring, she always put people first, fostering a camaraderie that led to organic teamwork, driving everyone to execute and deliver on expectations and needs. From my perspective, her superpower was the profound ripple effect she had on each and every person she interacted with. Like a shark maintaining balance in an ecosystem, she kept everything in harmony.

The shock and impact of her loss are shattering. Yet, in our admiration for her, we know we must strive to continue her legacy, to carry on as she would have expected of us. Her spirit will not be confined to her days spent in the flesh on this Earth but will live on forever in all of our actions. I know for myself it will, as I admired her greatly for her leadership grit and ability to remain authentic to who she was as a person, wife, and mother.

My sincere and deepest sympathy to her immediate family, friends, and loved ones as you grieve. May this memory wall highlight the incredible life she led as a professional, a person, the spirit she spread across the globe, and one day you feel peace within your soul knowing how honored she is.
Megan Longhi
July 15, 2024
My deepest condolences to Eileen's family and loved ones. I got to know Eileen a few years ago as a women with a lot of power, fun, strong opinion, drive, curiosity, always having a pocket left of energy to solve additional tasks - but most importantly as a people leader and mentor. I will miss the open conversations and her trust. She was the perfect combination: soft to the person, but hard in the topic.
Franca Maischein
July 15, 2024
I met Eileen first as an auditor: keen, competent, plus very fair, and of great support. Eileen was one of the great women in leadership. My deepest sympathy and condolence are with her family who has to cope with this greatest loss. Hoping it is of some comfort knowing how much we liked and appreciated Eileen.
Britta Strehl
July 15, 2024
I still remember my first meeting with Eileen many years ago, it was about the implementation of Trackwise and we had very different opinions about this tool. It was the first time working with a Scottish colleague and I struggled immense with the Scottish accent. But it was funny and very constructive from the first moment. As more as we worked with each other she became a great colleague to deal with, solution oriented, reliable, always in a positive mindset and finally I understood the Scottish accent ;-).
She will be clearly missed and I send my heartfelt sympathy to her family.
Heike Petri
July 14, 2024
I only knew Eileen after joining Merck in 2021, but over those three years she made a tremendous impression. She was always energized, practical, and eager to collaborate, and brought a wry sense of humor to every conversation that made working together a joy. To lose that companionship is difficult as a colleague and friend, for a family member it must be so unimaginably more so. We will keenly miss Eileen, and treasure her memory.
Godfrey Firth
July 14, 2024
I still remember vividly of my first trip to Boston for a company event in which I'm manning a booth. A lady walked up to me and called my name. It's my first time meeting Eileen in person. I was slightly shocked and took me a while to recognize her. After getting to know her, she proceeded to ask me to tell her about my project. Her warmness makes me feel at ease and brighten my day.
Her untimely passing is will truly be missed. My heart and condolences to her family.
Teoh Boon Sia
July 14, 2024
I will miss Eileen's advocacy for our business, customers and her team members. From our first 1:1 to our last steerco update, she challenged and supported us in developing improved processes and products for our manufacturing customers. Most importantly, she always took the time to check in personally and show gratitude. This was a unique leadership combination that will be missed. I will keep Eileen's family in my prayers.
Chloe McClanahan
July 12, 2024
I enjoyed working with Eileen. She made herself available and was very supportive of me and my projects at Cell Marque in Rocklin. I loved her no nonsense style and cutting to the heart of our business and project topics. Logical, collaborative and fair. That's how I'll remember Eileen.

My sympathies to her family; unexpected losses are the hardest.
John Bohland
July 12, 2024
My deepest condolences to Eileen's family and friends. Eileen was one of the best business leaders that I have encountered as a lawyer. She was so sharp but kind, funny and fun. I always knew that whatever she did was going to get done right and with full effort. I always wished that there were more Eileens here at Merck. I had a lot of respect for Eileen and will miss her greatly.
Sangwha Hong
July 11, 2024
I had heard great things about Eileen, but had not had the opportunity to meet her until last summer when she basically resided in St. Louis after SAP Next. I was in a meeting with her, and was immediately impressed by her presence and demeanor in a difficult situation. She had that attitude of "we can point fingers later, but let's get this done." She really was a get things done type of person. She injected confidence, humor, and just enough light heartedness to deescalate the situation while at the same time impressing to those around her that she wanted results. She was approachable, and always willing to assist and influence where necessary. When I had the opportunity to work on her team in the Spring, I jumped at the chance. She was someone who people wanted to be around. Someone who would push and challenge you, but would also have your back. Someone who elevated her team to an amazing degree, which in turn made for a better Merck. I will truly miss Eileen, her spirit, and her energy. While it is no consolation for her loss to her family and friends, know that she had an amazing impact on all she worked with at Merck.
Bryan Duney
July 11, 2024
It is with a very heavy heart that I post my remembrance and condolences to Derrick and Zach. Eileen wasn't just a colleague, she was my friend. We have worked closely together over the last 5 or 6 years, starting with her role in master data, then as the Applied Quality BP, and as peers on the SLS LT. Her energy, her commitment to doing the right thing, her sense of fun -- these are the things that attracted me to her, as I like to think we were kindred spirits. Separated by an ocean but working closely together to make things happen -- for our teams, for our customers, and for Merck. I could always count on her, both personally and professionally. We both lost our remaining parent around the same time and that made our bond even closer. We worked hard, but we also enjoyed one anothers' company (and the odd beverage). When I got a new role and was leaving our team, we consoled ourselves that my new role would allow me to visit her in Glasgow. I'm sorry to say that only happened once, but I'm so happy that I got to meet her family at that time. Derrick, Zach -- your wife/your mom was an amazing person who touched peoples' lives wherever she went. She was an inspiration and will be truly, truly missed.
Heather Ahlborn
July 10, 2024
I was very upset to hear of Eileen's untimely passing. Eileen was so full of life, energy and drive. During our time on Tempo+ (hard to believe, 10 years ago) she was so driven we had many a long day, continuing working from various BA airport lounges till late. We had some great fun times on our travels and we loved a good gossip - her nose was always bothering her as she would say. My heart goes out to her family. RIP Eileen x
Rebecca Richardson
July 10, 2024
My sincere condolences go to Derek and Zach and all her familiy and close friends. As an HR business partner I worked closely with Eileen during her time in the Quality and Regulatory department. I can only echo what other colleagues have already said: she was a great person, full of energy, willing to go the extra mile and fun to work with. May she rest in peace.
Ursula Merz-Christiansen
July 9, 2024
It is with heavy hearts that we honor the life of Eileen, whose passing is an immeasurable loss for her family, friends, and colleagues, and we are all deeply saddened by this unexpected turn of events.
Eileen was a remarkable individual, with a unique blend of intelligence, diligence, and an unwavering determination to tackle challenge with patience and never give up mentality. I had the privilege of knowing and working with her since the acquisition.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Eileen embraced life with enthusiasm, finding joy in fostering meaningful relationships with her colleagues. This is inspiration to us all.
As we grieve the loss, I am enduring her memories. This picture fits best to her laughter, happiness, and connections she cultivated. Her spirit will remain and resonate with us days, weeks, months, and years ahead.
Rest in peace, dear Eileen. You will be deeply missed. With heartfelt sympathy.
Najib Sehat
July 9, 2024
My deepest condolences to Eileen's family and loved ones.

Eileen was a great leader, quickly acted to meet the goals. During two validation project challenging situations, Eileen reached out to understand the problem and provided full support to move forward. God give strength to Eileen's family.
Anbukumar Marimuthu
July 9, 2024
My deepest condolences to Eileen's family and loved ones.

Eileen was a great leader that prioritized people and making things better. She made sure to communicate regularly with her entire DxRM team and showed up always. Her work family will miss her dearly but always remember the impact she has had.

Sending strength to her family and friends in this difficult time.
Parth Vakil
July 9, 2024
I am incredibly saddened by Eileen's passing. I was fortunate to have met her an experience her character, her leadership, and her mentorship. She is the type of person who can lead by example and set excellence standards for her team.

I can still hear her voice in my head, asking, "how can we fix this". I can also still hear her say "it's unacceptable, let ME go escalate" and she'd return with an answer or a result. You want a leader to fight on your side, and that's the spirit of how I will remember Eileen; a fighter.

I wish peace and love to all those that knew Eileen and especially to her family May you find comfort in knowing Eileen has left a tremendous impact on those who closely knew her.
Mark Yerukhimovich
July 9, 2024
My deepest condolences to Eileen's family. I got to know Eileen a bit more last year during the SAP Next implementation in St Louis. I really appreciated her energy, her drive, her presence, her very active leadership during a challenging time. She had a knack of driving people to be their best while also being supportive and cheering people on. I remember a meeting in which I presented, she asked a lot of tough questions, but at the end as she walked by me, she reached out and squeezed my shoulder. She was a force of nature and I will miss her so much.
Katie Mondy Hughes
July 9, 2024
May your fondest memories of Eileen comfort you during this difficult time. My deepest sympathy to the family.

I was brought into my Data Migration Manager's role by Eileen for the SAP NEXT project. We faced many challenges together, none that through Eileen's guidance and and drive we could not overcome. In Eileen, you could see her passion and commitment to excellence which made us all better. She will be greatly missed!
Jerry Weidauer
July 9, 2024
May your fondest memories of Eileen comfort you during this difficult time.

I was brought into my Data Migration Manager's role by Eileen for the SAP NEXT project. We faced many challenges together, none that through Eileen's guidance and and drive we could not overcome. In Eileen, you could see her passion and commitment to excellence which made us all better. She will be greatly missed!
Jerry
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